Voice and Swallowing Disorders

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Voice and Swallowing Disorders

Voice and swallowing disorders affect a person’s ability to speak or swallow comfortably and can range from mild hoarseness to more severe conditions such as dysphagia. Expert evaluations, including speech therapy and medical interventions, are available to treat these conditions. Specialized treatments for these disorders, particularly those related to sleep apnea, are also offered. These services are available in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, including cities like Coral Gables, Miami, Hollywood, Miramar, Pembroke Pines, and Plantation.

Visit our clinics: Southeastern Ear, Nose, Throat and Sinus Center; Sleep, Snoring & Sinus Clinic of Florida; and My Care 360.

Endoscopy

Endoscopy for voice and swallowing disorders is a diagnostic procedure that allows specialists to examine the throat (pharynx), voice box (larynx), and upper esophagus using a thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope). This test helps identify issues like vocal cord dysfunction, inflammation, tumors, or structural abnormalities. It is typically performed in-office, using local anesthesia, and is essential for evaluating hoarseness, chronic throat discomfort, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), or persistent coughing.

Flexible Rhino-Laringospy

Flexible rhino-laryngoscopy is a quick, in-office procedure used to examine the nasal passages, throat, and voice box (larynx) with a thin, flexible scope equipped with a light and camera. It helps diagnose conditions such as nasal obstruction, vocal cord issues, chronic cough, hoarseness, or swallowing difficulties. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia (numbing spray) and allows real-time visualization of structures and function during breathing, speaking, and swallowing.

Stroboscopy

Stroboscopy is a specialized exam used to evaluate the movement of the vocal cords during speech. It uses a strobe light in sync with the vibration of the vocal cords, allowing slow-motion visualization of their function. This test is essential for diagnosing voice disorders such as nodules, polyps, vocal cord paralysis, or muscle tension dysphonia. It’s typically performed in-office using a rigid or flexible scope and provides detailed information about vocal fold vibration, closure, and symmetry.

Speech and Swallowing Therapy

Speech and swallowing therapy is a personalized treatment program led by a licensed speech-language pathologist (SLP) to help patients with communication difficulties and swallowing disorders (dysphagia). Therapy may address issues such as hoarseness, vocal strain, articulation problems, or difficulty chewing and swallowing. Techniques include vocal exercises, breathing coordination, dietary modifications, and strategies to improve safety and efficiency while speaking or eating. It’s commonly used after surgery, stroke, or due to neurological or structural conditions.